I am a volunteer with a non-profit therapeutic riding center in North Texas that works with adults and children with special needs.. I used my debit card to rent a credit card terminal to allow the organization to have the facility to take credit cards at a fundraiser. The decision was last minute and it was just easier to use my card then and there. I used a company called First Data Independent Sales in Spanish Fork Utah. The day after the equipment was returned to them - packed in the same packaging and same box that they sent to me - a charge was made to my bank account for just over $884 by the rental company. I don't go on line to check my bank account every day so did not notice the charge until Monday the 3rd. Called the company and asked them what that was all about. They responded on the 4th with an email claiming the equipment was returned 'damaged' and 'dirty' and hence the charge. I know the equipment was clean and in perfect shape when I packed it and returned it. Next steps?
I have sent forms to my bank and reported the charge as 'fraud.' Bank doesn't seem to convinced they can get the charge reversed. Reported it to the BBB bureau in Utah yesterday. Talked to the local Chamber of Commerce - company not a member. Familiar with them tho and have had at least one previous complaint about them.
I have spoken with the rental company numerous times - unpleasant is an understatement.
Said I was lying and that I just liked the sound of my own voice.
I asked why did they not advise me upon discovery of supposed damage and dirt. Said they had 'hundreds' of pieces of equipment come in and didn't immediately open every one of them and weren't just waiting for my terminal. I asked then how come they were able to figure out so quickly it was 'damaged' and 'dirty' and immediately charge my bank account yet didn't find time to advise or contact me. Contact backtracked and said well they saw it was damaged.
Contact said he did advise me in the email I got on the 4th. They day after I called. They are not 'obliged' by contract to advise anyone of anything he said.
Suggested I contact UPS to claim damage.
I asked was box/packaging damaged. Well could have been he said. I asked if they had evidence/photographs of the damage and a log of the take in. No. But it was received damaged and even though I said I didn't damage it he only had my word and I could well be lying. I replied that I only had his word that it was damaged and it might be his company policy to just say everything is damaged upon arrival and charge people and see if they can get away with it.
I absolutely believe this is completely bogus and I am personally out of pocket a considerable amount and of course the non-profit wants to reimburse me and everyone is very upset and totally knows (the staff were all there) that the CC terminal was not dropped, or liquid spilled on it or anything else done to damage it. However, the organization is not exactly flush either and I want to do everything I can to get this money back. It is a real hardship for me right now to say the least.
Anyway, any advice on what else I should/could do? Thinking of going to the media about this if the bank/Visa can't/won't do anything. Have to be careful with libel I think.